Google Voice Now Works WIth Existing Mobile Numbers
IP-192.com was one of several readers to note that Google Voice users can now utilize their existing mobile phone number for collecting voice messages instead of applying for a Google Voice number. From the post at the Google Voice blog: "Up until now, if you wanted to use Google Voice, you needed to choose a new number. Taking calls through your Google number allows us to offer features like call recording, call screening and getting text messages via email." Not all features (like conference calling) are available to those bringing their own number, but voice messages by email is my favorite feature.
From TFA:
More specifically, if you sign up for Google Voice with your existing number, you'll get:
* Online, searchable voicemail
* Free automated voicemail transcription
* Custom voicemail greetings for different callers
* Email and SMS notifications
* Low-priced international calling
If you decide to also get a new Google number, you'll get all of the above PLUS:
* One number that reaches you on all your phones
... lame. Completely killed my interest in this most recent development.
* SMS via email
* Call screening
* Listen In
* Call recording
* Conference calling
* Call blocking
So, you don't get all the features if you port in an existing number. How
~dijjnn